Presidential spokesman Edwin Lacierda. INQUIRER FILE PHOTO
FOLLOWING Malacañang’s orders, the military has intensified operations against the Abu Sayyaf and other terror groups in the southern Philippines after the beheading of a Malaysian national last week.
Saying that “terrorism knows no borders,” presidential spokesperson Edwin Lacierda urged Filipinos to avoid places, like malls, where large crowds gather and report any suspicious activities to the authorities.
Malaysian Prime Minister Najib Razak had condemned the beheading of Malaysian electrical engineer Bernard Then, who was abducted in Sabah in May and taken to Jolo, Sulu. A woman captive was freed after ransom was paid.
Malacañang has yet to convene the National Security Council (NSC) to discuss measures to take in the fight against terrorism.
The NSC includes President Aquino, Vice President Jejomar Binay, Armed Forces Chief of Staff Gen. Hernando Iriberri, National Security Adviser Cesar Garcia, Defense Secretary Voltaire Gazmin, Foreign Secretary Albert del Rosario, Interior Secretary Mel Senen Sarmiento and Justice Secretary Alfredo Benjamin Caguioa.
In a text message to the Inquirer, Presidential Communications Secretary Herminio Coloma said Mr. Aquino “emphasized the importance of taking steps” to neutralize “those manifesting extremist inclinations” and stop acts of terrorism.
Coloma said the President had directed the military and police to “further intensify operations against the Abu Sayyaf and other terror threat elements.”
Speaking on state-run Radyo ng Bayan, Lacierda said the beheading of the Malaysian was very unfortunate and added: “Whatever happens, we will continue to fight terrorism in all its forms.”
“We have warnings about places, especially in areas where the public mill about, like malls. If you see suspicious items, report them to the proper authorities,” he said. Jerry E. Esplanada and Julie M. Aurelio